Maïli-Jade Ouellet

Name: Maïli-Jade Ouellet
Age: 20
Major: Bachelor in Business Management
Class: Junior College: Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship
Hometown: Saint-Lambert, Quebec, Canada
High School: College Durocher Saint-Lambert, Quebec, Canada 

Why UTRGV?
I chose to study at UTRGV because two strong grandmasters lead an excellent chess program and because I received a full scholarship. I am able to play in many tournaments across the United States, and I could not be happier.

What made you decide on your current major?
Back in Canada, I worked as a cashier at a grocery store, and soon after, I was promoted to supervisor. I had many tasks and responsibilities, and it turned out that I excelled in them and that I loved being in charge. As a result, I thought majoring in management would be a good fit for me.

What do you hope to achieve beyond completion of your major?
Eventually, I would like to find a job that I love and makes me feel fulfilled. Moreover, I see myself playing chess competitively for a very long time. 

What do you like most about UTRGV?
I love that there is a Recreation Center where I can exercise and have a lot of fun playing ping pong or badminton.

What does being a Vaquero mean to you?
Being a Vaquero does not mean much to me since I did not grow up with the culture. However, I can appreciate the niceness of belonging to a community. What opportunities has UTRGV helped you find throughout your community? Working as a chess program assistant gave me the opportunity to organize chess tournaments and gain valuable experience.

What advice or words of encouragement do you have for fellow students pursuing their degrees?
Just do it.